A hysterectomy is a surgery to remove the uterus, and sometimes, the cervix (bottom of the uterus. Depending on the reason for the surgery and your desires, a hysterectomy may also involve removing the fallopian tubes and ovaries as well. (uterus diagram)
Dr. Guerette will discuss which options for a hysterectomy are available depending on your condition. This will determine if your cervix, fallopian tubes and/or ovaries need to be removed or should remain in place.
Ovaries are the organs that produce your hormones, not the uterus. Leaving your ovaries WILL NOT put you in menopause if your ovaries are still functioning.
Very common. About 300,000 women get hysterectomies in the United States each year.
There are several different surgical approaches to perform a hysterectomy. Dr. Guerette specializes in minimally invasive surgical approaches and a big abdominal incision is almost never needed.
Robotic, Vaginal and laparoscopic recovery take about two to four weeks.
Sex is often better after hysterectomy because the issue causing pain, bleeding, prolapse, etc is corrected. Your sexual function isn’t usually negatively affected by a hysterectomy. Removing your ovaries will start symptoms of menopause if you were not already in menopause. Symptoms such as low sex drive and vaginal dryness may occur. Talk to the IWI team about hormone optimization.
Yes, you can still have an orgasm and ejaculate after a hysterectomy. A hysterectomy does not affect the nerves in the clitoris and vagina that give sexual sensation and orgasm.
Studies have consistently shown your partner’s sexual satisfaction is not affected by a hysterectomy. Menopause from the ovaries being removed or naturally can cause dryness and discomfort. IWI has excellent treatments to reverse these issues.
The incisions made during a robotic surgery cause minimal trauma (8mm) compared to those made to accommodate open surgery. As a result, laparoscopy offers:
Many minimally invasive procedures, whether robotic or traditional laparoscopy, can be done as an outpatient, so you go home the same day. If your procedure requires hospitalization, your stay is shorter than it would be for open surgery.
To learn more about robotic surgery, call IWI or book an appointment.
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